LOS BUNKERS – ‘BAJO LOS ÁRBOLES’

BY JANIN AYALA FELIX | NOVEMBER 1, 2023 | SPANISH ROCK | TRACKS

Chile’s alt-rock titans Los Bunkers are back in full swing, and “Bajo los Árboles,” their latest single, reasserts their place in the Latin rock landscape with raw, nostalgic energy. Released as part of their long-awaited reunion, this track sees the band exploring a sound that’s both classic and refreshingly new, proving that after years away, they haven’t lost their edge.

Co-written by the Durán brothers and Álvaro López, “Bajo los Árboles” highlights Francisco Durán’s haunting lead vocals, a familiar voice for fans of Bunkers classics like “Llueve sobre la ciudad” and “Ahora que no estás.” His delivery on this track, however, digs deeper into a more personal, reflective space, capturing the yearning and introspection that the song’s lyrics evoke. The track invites listeners to escape the burdens of everyday life and retreat to a place of peace and nostalgia, perfectly encapsulated in the chorus: “Hoy me voy a recostar / Bajo los árboles / Y sentirme en algún lugar / Donde al fin pueda regresar.”

Musically, “Bajo los Árboles” is Los Bunkers at their rawest. The song kicks off with dueling, rolling riffs from Mauricio and Francisco Durán—reminiscent of the Richards/Wood interplay that defined the best of The Rolling Stones. The distorted guitars are a fresh touch in the band’s catalog, providing a grittier, more rock-forward sound than their previous single “Rey,” which leaned heavily into ’80s synths and rhythmic melodies. This song is a reminder of Los Bunkers’ rock roots, delivering a bold contrast to the reggaetón-heavy beats that currently dominate much of Latin music.

Recorded at the iconic Sonic Ranch studios in Texas—situated fittingly amidst a sprawling pecan orchard—the production reflects the earthy, grounded themes of the song. With the band handling the production themselves alongside Chilean engineer Felipe Castro, “Bajo los Árboles” balances a lush, retro vibe with a modern, no-frills approach. The guitars and drums take center stage, with sparse keyboards accentuating the melodies in the background, letting the band’s chemistry do the heavy lifting. The simplicity of the production highlights the band’s tight musicianship while giving Francisco’s introspective lyrics the space they deserve.

Accompanying the release is a monochromatic music video directed by Mexican filmmaker Paco Ibarra. The video, shot in a candid, documentary style, shows the band back at work in the studio, capturing the camaraderie and creative process after years apart. There’s a sense of intimacy and nostalgia, fitting seamlessly with the song’s themes of reflection and rediscovery. It’s a stark contrast to the flashier, more polished visuals of “Rey,” showing that diversity, both musically and visually, is still at the heart of Los Bunkers’ artistry.

As Los Bunkers continue their international reunion tour, with stops across Mexico and Spain, “Bajo los Árboles” serves as both a celebration of the band’s storied past and a bold leap into their future. It’s a reminder that they’re not just looking back—they’re evolving, experimenting, and bringing a renewed sense of urgency to their sound. This single shows that Los Bunkers remain a vital force in Latin rock, capable of crafting songs that resonate as deeply now as they did during their heyday.

“Bajo los Árboles” is a testament to that rare ability to capture both nostalgia and reinvention in one sweeping, raw rock anthem.

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